☆Quantifying shock to understand the destruction process. By implementing instrumentation, we can analyze the results of shock tests in greater detail. It is possible not only to quantify the tests but also to graph multiple test results for analysis. We can easily conduct comparative analysis by examining the differences in crack propagation and fracture speed for different materials when subjected to the same shock value.

☆Visualizing the differences in shock absorption. Even when the same shock is applied, the way materials respond to the impact can vary. For example, in a comparative test between materials A and B, A broke immediately after the impact, while B held on for a moment before breaking. Materials like A tend to leave sharp fracture surfaces, whereas B results in relatively smooth fracture surfaces. It has become clear that for products that are frequently handled by people, it is better to choose material B.

☆Observe impacts in detail through synchronized measurements with high-speed video! The speed at which materials reach fracture varies. For example, materials like carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) fracture at high speeds without bending, making them difficult to capture with the naked eye. By implementing instrumentation, in addition to high-speed video, you can obtain even more detailed data with a function that automatically tracks the crack tip.

☆Reproducing harsh environments in a test chamber. Tests can be conducted under temperature conditions ranging from -70°C to 200°C. Even materials that are usually robust can significantly lose their durability at low temperatures. Conversely, some materials may become more ductile at high temperatures. Clarifying these differences contributes to the creation of safer products.

01. Understanding Product Strength. | For Safe Product Development Impact testing is an essential test to reveal the toughness and brittleness of materials. To create safe products, it is necessary to understand the characteristics and strength of the materials used. While it is important for products to withstand impacts, it is also crucial to test whether they will "fail safely" when they do break, as this is an important indicator in testing. | Fail-Safe Philosophy No matter how strong a product is or how carefully it is used, destruction of the product cannot be avoided. The philosophy of allowing a product to break in a manner that is as safe as possible, even when it ultimately fails, is called fail-safe. For example, buildings that collapse in a way that leaves internal space during an earthquake, or windows that shatter into granular pieces, are types of fail-safe. In aircraft, tear straps are used to ensure that cracks remain contained within a certain range of growth.

02. Knowing how to break safely. | What products are safe when they break "There was a sudden collapse of the building." "The window broke and shards flew out, causing injury." There are dangers that can arise when things break. How can we avoid such dangers? For example, "Use materials that show signs of deformation before breaking." "Explore ways of breaking that do not harm the user." Such measures need to be tested.

03. Understanding the physical properties of materials. | The relationship between environmental changes and durability Even robust materials can become extremely brittle under certain environmental conditions. Materials that are usually strong may exhibit significantly reduced durability at low temperatures. Conversely, at high temperatures, materials can elongate under tensile forces and ultimately fracture. It is said that the sinking of the Titanic was caused by the use of materials that were weak at low temperatures, leading to the expansion of cracks. | Factors other than temperature Generally, materials with high strength are more prone to failure from small cracks. Additionally, high-strength alloys tend to become brittle when exposed to influences such as hydrogen or chloride ions. The properties of high strength and high toughness are difficult to achieve simultaneously, so it is necessary to consider the intended purpose and the environment in which the material will be used when selecting materials.

04. The Evolution of Impact Testing. | Reproducibility and Instrumentation In the past, impact testing machines evaluated the strength of samples based on whether they broke or not. This method was cumbersome and often left doubts about reproducibility due to the lack of precise numerical data. However, in recent years, machines have emerged that allow for the setting of the hammer's angle and quantify the impact energy, displaying it on a screen. These machines also feature automatic return of the hammer position after testing and the ability to calculate test results, alleviating operational hassles and making testing more comfortable.